Vasohibin-2 (VASH2)

Vasohibin-2 (VASH2) is a multifunctional enzyme and angiogenesis regulator encoded by the VASH2 gene in humans. It is classified biochemically as a tubulin tyrosine carboxypeptidase, removing the C-terminal tyrosine from alpha-tubulin, thereby regulating microtubule dynamics. VASH2 is structurally related to Vasohibin-1 (VASH1), but unlike VASH1 (which inhibits angiogenesis), VASH2 promotes angiogenesis, especially in tumor environments where it is upregulated by hypoxia. VASH2 supports tumor growth and metastasis by stimulating the formation of new blood vessels and facilitates cell migration, invasion, and proliferation. It also plays roles in neuronal development and tissue repair, acting as a critical modulator of embryonic vascular growth and neural differentiation. Overexpression is linked to multiple cancers and is a potential therapeutic and diagnostic target, especially where increased angiogenesis drives disease progression[1][2][3][4][6].

Other names

Tubulinyl-Tyr carboxypeptidase 2Vasohibin-like proteinVASHLFLJ12505testicular tissue protein Li 222

Inhibition of VASH2 reduces tumor angiogenesis and metastasis[1][2]. Inhibition of VASH2 leads to decreased microtubule detyrosination, affecting cell proliferation, migration, and mitosis[3][4]. VASH2-targeted compounds would theoretically block angiogenic or tubulin-modifying activity in disease contexts.